Jobs in information security continue to grow as businesses rely more heavily on data processing, automated systems, and cloud computing storage. Much of this data includes sensitive information, such as medical records or billing information. Companies continue to seek qualified information systems professionals to take on jobs in research and development of new technology, plus network architects, systems analysts, and database administrators.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 13% growth among all computer occupations through 2026, and much of that growth will come from third-party companies offering information technology contracting and cloud hosting services. An online master's in management information systems ensures graduates have the technical expertise necessary to tackle their job responsibilities, and provides a business foundation that may offer a competitive edge in the job market. Universities offering specializations in fields such as healthcare, data analysis, and project management provide excellent opportunities to break into these growing concentrations.
Sensitive business information may include sales data, customers' personal information, or proprietary data on strategic business decisions, like new products or software. An online master's in management information systems prepares graduates for exciting and lucrative careers in these growing fields. Job-seekers should consider how their salary may grow over time, from an entry-level average of $64,915 to more than $96,000 for a 20-year career veteran, according to the BLS. Location also impacts salary expectations and job availability: New York, for example, offers the highest mean wage for information systems workers at $187,770, while California provides the most jobs, with 53,270 computer and information systems managers employed.
State | Employment | Annual Mean Wage |
---|---|---|
New York | 26,520 | $187,770 |
New Jersey | 13,900 | $175,830 |
California | 53,270 | $174,790 |
Virginia | 13,460 | $169,660 |
District of Columbia | 4,060 | $164,310 |
United States | 365,690 | $149,730 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Source: PayScale
Computer programming and architecture form the core job responsibilities for most information systems professionals, but their day-to-day work can vary significantly between career paths. Prospective professionals should analyze the industry in which they hope to work, such as finance, banking, or healthcare, and consider the parts of information systems they most enjoy -- security, developing new applications, ensuring data integrity, or troubleshooting IT problems. The field rewards professionals who bring practical technical knowledge to the workplace, combined with problem-solving and analytical thinking abilities. Depending on the job, individuals may also need strong communication and interpersonal skills and creativity.
Annual Median Salary: $114,520
Projected Growth Rate: 19%
This specialized field looks to next-generation technology advances. The scientists work collaboratively with teams of engineers to improve the user experience through a variety of technologies. They may develop new computing languages or tools, research solutions to computing challenges, or develop sophisticated algorithms to advance artificial intelligence or cloud computing.
Annual Median Salary: $104,650
Projected Growth Rate: 6%
A company's network makes sure all team members can communicate internally and externally. Network architects use their advanced knowledge of computer programming, business plans, and the available hardware and software to design network solutions. They maintain equipment such as routers and modems to keep up with changes in technology and ensure network security.
Annual Median Salary: $82,240
Projected Growth Rate: -7%
Computer programmers work closely with software developers, using developers' ideas to build functioning software applications. Programmers often troubleshoot new applications to ensure they work correctly, and fix any errors before introducing the applications to end users. These professionals must pick up new computer languages easily, as these may change as technology changes, and they often need specialized industry knowledge to understand which business functions their programs must perform.
Annual Median Salary: $88,270
Projected Growth Rate: 9%
Systems analysts keep organizations' hardware, software, and network systems operating correctly. They often test and diagnose IT problems, and develop recommendations for improvements. Systems analysts also plan for overall upgrades, from choosing new computer software and hardware to designing network changes. They develop and oversee projects, and ensure adherence to budget constraints.
Annual Median Salary: $87,020
Projected Growth Rate: 11%
Database administrators ensure business data remains organized and easily accessible to departments. They manage information protocols that include monitoring performance, maintaining data backup, and implementing security and access measures. They may specialize in a particular field, like healthcare records or banking, or serve as generalists. The growth of cloud computing has increased the demand for database administrators in third-party service providers, though many companies continue to employ their own dedicated database teams.
Top universities offering online master's in information systems degrees ensure students gain a strong foundation in computer programming, application development, and database management. Most programs offer electives and concentrations to enhance students' degrees, but these may vary significantly from school to school. See below for an example curriculum.
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